Which side will win the WTC23 final between Australia and India?

[CrIc_Mystique]

Two ways of understanding the situation -

Blame ipl or be pragmatic

Ipl is a necessary evil . Pre ipl era , we were barely competitive abroad . Ipl seems to have ushered few positives u can’t overlook -

- Tushar , mohsin etc bowlers getting trained with the best . Bumrah got fast tracked into national team .. bowling talent is unearthed faster in ipl

- players are confident , financially secure . An azar situation likely will not occur . People making good money

- india has reached finals second time . Cheers . Shami , siraj , ash and jadeja coupled with Unmesh Shadul are good enough to build pressure and get wickets .

When I look at the squad , the batsmen are pretty much the ones playing last 5 years except vihari . Pant not being there with bumrah has been our misfortune . Still a decent team .

Wtc final champions will likely be aussie given lack of pant . But who knows - a bharat or a kishan might just surprise u .

If u were a bcci official , what else would u do ? Scheduling versus finances versus injuries . Not easy to please everybody

The only critique of bcci I have is the prima donna culture . Kohli was rightly shown the door though two years too late .

I would say be happy with ipl and wtc finals . Let’s hope that bcci does better selections for odi and t20 wc . They don’t seem to understand t20 and odi well . Rohit is now trying to play correct t20 and hopefully he will get us one if not two trophies in next two years .

Don’t sweat over cricket too much . It’s just a game .

some good points ! ...Am not blaming the IPL - i surely am dead critical on its length. It HAS to be shorter. I endorse the IPL as well, you have pointed out the fin benefits and also several players have emerged from this, all for it. On the flip side it is also endagering the game, especially diluting the toughest format.
And yes, the prima donna culture needs to be cut very soon....as the aussies will say "cut the tall poppies" - i cringe everytime VK behaves like a headless chook on the field.

Hopefully, we come out on the right side of the result in 2 week's time. Lastly, a championship of WTC stature deserves to have a three match finals played in 3 varying conditions - one each in swinging conditions in Eng/Nz, seam and bounce in Aus/SAF and spin friendly SC conditons in SC, that would be a test of a true winner.

If this was implemented in 2021 WTC - surely it would be 2-1 to us.

 

[Champ_Pal]

Only 1 week time remaining for the WTC final

Could be a rude awakening for all IPL Shuper Shtars. Gill-Rahane-Jaddu-Shami will have even less time to get back into Test form.

 

[cricketjoshila]

And who will pay for the BCCI executive's lavish lifestyle? Not happening in a million years.

BCCI executive lavish lifestyle?

Do you know how much BCCI puts into cricket? Any idea?

How much money a domestic cricketer, who may never make it to the Indian team, makes?

How much money does BCCI pay as pension to cricketers?


I for one don't want Indian cricketers to have to resort to small jobs to make a living post cricket.

You get to hear about Asian cricketers living lives driving taxis or buses in Australia after Playing for their countries.

In places like NZ someone like Sinclair struggles to make a living.

Those days are not coming back to Indian cricket. Never.

IPL is necessary for Indian cricket. And 6-8 weeks in a year can be spared for that.

 

[TheNeutralist]

Deepak Chahar in an interview mentioned that Indian players can come and hit six first ball because they are confident, confident of playing in front of big crowds, confident because their financial health is good. All this is because of IPL.

Any new players coming up get picked in IPL, they rub shoulders with big players (Indian and foreign), have great facilities (diet, gym, practice). And once you have money and financial security, you can play well.

 

[JattMaula]

BCCI executive lavish lifestyle?

Do you know how much BCCI puts into cricket? Any idea?

How much money a domestic cricketer, who may never make it to the Indian team, makes?

How much money does BCCI pay as pension to cricketers?


I for one don't want Indian cricketers to have to resort to small jobs to make a living post cricket.

You get to hear about Asian cricketers living lives driving taxis or buses in Australia after Playing for their countries.

In places like NZ someone like Sinclair struggles to make a living.

Those days are not coming back to Indian cricket. Never.

IPL is necessary for Indian cricket. And 6-8 weeks in a year can be spared for that.

People want good old days when cricketers earned peanuts and cricket was "great".

 

[cricketjoshila]

People want good old days when cricketers earned peanuts and cricket was "great".

Yes. Asian cricketers going to play county cricket to earn a decent living. English and Aussies having a laugh. All that is great for cricket.

 

[U$ofA]

some good points ! ...Am not blaming the IPL - i surely am dead critical on its length. It HAS to be shorter. I endorse the IPL as well, you have pointed out the fin benefits and also several players have emerged from this, all for it. On the flip side it is also endagering the game, especially diluting the toughest format.
And yes, the prima donna culture needs to be cut very soon....as the aussies will say "cut the tall poppies" - i cringe everytime VK behaves like a headless chook on the field.

Hopefully, we come out on the right side of the result in 2 week's time. Lastly, a championship of WTC stature deserves to have a three match finals played in 3 varying conditions - one each in swinging conditions in Eng/Nz, seam and bounce in Aus/SAF and spin friendly SC conditons in SC, that would be a test of a true winner.

If this was implemented in 2021 WTC - surely it would be 2-1 to us.

The ICC does not want to be part of even one final. You think they will open up their wallets for three of them? Also, you think there is enough interest in this "tournament" for a best of three finals?

 

[Hitman]

Yes. Asian cricketers going to play county cricket to earn a decent living. English and Aussies having a laugh. All that is great for cricket.

It's funny because fans who claim so have no financial incentives from the game, and a lot of ex cricketers who claim the same had no problem during their time in opting to play in the Kerry Packer circus neglacting international cricket.

 

[cricketjoshila]

It's funny because fans who claim so have no financial incentives from the game, and a lot of ex cricketers who claim the same had no problem during their time in opting to play in the Kerry Packer circus neglacting international cricket.

I had a big laugh every time Michael holding whined about players playing IPL.

 

[Markhor]

Weather has been very good in England in the last couple of weeks. Dry spell expected to continue. Hopefully no rain interruptions unlike the Rose Bowl final two years ago.

The Oval in my view is the best Test ground in the country, and been well suited to Asian teams over the years as it takes spin and reverse swing while offering good value for strokeplay.

 

[ufcfan]

By the way all those names were part of two series' victories in Australia

 

[MenInG]

Ricky Ponting reveals the India player he would pick in their XI to shake up the World Test Championship final, as well as the absent all-rounder he also would have selected.

The India XI will be stacked with stars when they face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship final but Ponting has called for a keeper-batter to be handed a red-ball debut.

Ishan Kishan has impressed in 41 white-ball internationals for India since 2021 whether batting at the top of the order or taking the gloves but is yet to play a Test.

The 24-year-old proved he can turn a game on its head when smashing 210 runs from 131 balls with 10 sixes and 24 boundaries while opening for India in an ODI against Bangladesh last December.

It is that sort of devastating display that Ponting believes could ultimately prove the difference between the evenly-matched teams set to contest the WTC final from June 7.

“I’d pick Ishan Kishan,” Ponting told The ICC Review.

“If you want to be crowned the world champion, you have to win the game. Hence why there is a sixth day that has been added to try and give both teams the best chance of a result.

“I'd be going with Ishan Kishan if I was them in this game. I think it just provides that little bit of X-factor that you might need when pushing for a win in a Test match.”

KS Bharat was preferred for the four Tests in the recent series between India and Australia with Rishabh Pant unavailable after being involved in a motor vehicle accident in January.

The 29-year-old wicketkeeper is best suited to the red-ball format and looked comfortable when averaging 20.20 with the bat against Australia on tricky wickets, but could still be overlooked for the winner-takes-all WTC Final.

“Obviously if Rishabh Pant is fit, he's playing and he provides that X-factor for India,” Ponting said.

“But with him not being there, and this is no blight on Bharat whatsoever, but I think Kishan just provides that little bit more X-factor.

“(Kishan) will do a good job with the gloves, but can provide that really high-scoring run rate that might be required in a one-off Test match to try and push for a win.”

All-rounder Hardik Pandya is often the player to spark India in the white-ball format and would be a useful addition to the line-up for the WTC final but has not been included in the squad.

Pandya has not played a Test since 2018 and was quick to rule himself out of contention for the WTC final after electing to sit out of the five-day format due to ongoing fitness concerns.

But Ponting would have liked to see the proven match-winner talked into being part of the squad for the high stakes clash at The Oval.

“The other really interesting thing that I thought about the other day for India in this game is how valuable someone like Hardik Pandya could be in a one-off Test match,” Ponting said.

“I know he is on record saying that the Test match game is probably a little bit hard on his body. But for a one-off game... he's been bowling every game through this IPL and he's bowling quick.

“He could be that X-factor there just to pick in a one-off game, come in and see what he can do with bat and ball. He could be the difference between the two teams.”

ICC

 

[sweep_shot]

People want good old days when cricketers earned peanuts and cricket was "great".

Cricket was indeed great in good old days. It felt wholesome.

Modern day cricket is lame in comparison.

 

[jnaveen1980]

Cricket was indeed great in good old days. It felt wholesome.

Modern day cricket is lame in comparison.

Cricketers won't think so. Financially they are in far far better position. More people take up cricket as a profession.

 

[Mp812]

Cricket was indeed great in good old days. It felt wholesome.

Modern day cricket is lame in comparison.

During those days up to 2004, there was a talk that cricket may be dying due to financial issues. Series after series between any teams ,especially test matches were making losses(except maybe Ashes). The WI players with cricketing potential had already started tilting towards NBA purely for financial gains, by the late 90s, giving cricket low priority. Thats when Modern day cricket ( T20 as is known today) was developed. If it was not for T20, many of the talented players we see today would have been lost to some other profession.

Change is inevitable in any field and one has to accept it. Else one gets induced into nostalgia induced depression.

The cricketer who played for just love of game were playing just for love it. They did not have the $$$ to be fit like the present day players. Just see Benson and Hedges 1980's cricket games to see how the fielder just escorted the ball to the boundary most of times with a rare diving save seen once every 2 games.

 

[jattafridi]

I hope King Kohli Prince Shubman Gill both flop and my Green win

But I know both will score

 

[Firebat]

Don't mind who wins because I dislike both these teams lol, as long as it's a great game. Hopefully India top order don't collapse like last time.

 

[docteurmanish]

some good points ! ...Am not blaming the IPL - i surely am dead critical on its length. It HAS to be shorter. I endorse the IPL as well, you have pointed out the fin benefits and also several players have emerged from this, all for it. On the flip side it is also endagering the game, especially diluting the toughest format.
And yes, the prima donna culture needs to be cut very soon....as the aussies will say "cut the tall poppies" - i cringe everytime VK behaves like a headless chook on the field.

Hopefully, we come out on the right side of the result in 2 week's time. Lastly, a championship of WTC stature deserves to have a three match finals played in 3 varying conditions - one each in swinging conditions in Eng/Nz, seam and bounce in Aus/SAF and spin friendly SC conditons in SC, that would be a test of a true winner.

If this was implemented in 2021 WTC - surely it would be 2-1 to us.

Game is not endangered . It’s thriving .

The 5 day game has been super entertaining last 10 years . England , india and Australia have produced most exciting cricket . It’s a shame pakistan and Sri Lanka deteriorated but still overall test cricket is much more fun now .

Cricket is going to evolve in leagues . 5 day cricket will still be played subsidized by t20 . Odi will fade away .

 

[Champ_Pal]

Cricket was indeed great in good old days. It felt wholesome.

Modern day cricket is lame in comparison.

Bowlers looked malnourished and batsmen looked like truck drivers back in 80's and 90's. The fielding was even more appalling. It still looked good on tv as people did not have too many outlets available for entertainment. It was either movies or cricket.

 

[jattafridi]

Need special performance from Steve Smith and Pat Cummins

Good luck Australian team

Future World Test Championship winner

Runner up heartbreak

Let’s see who performs under pressure

 

[MenInG]

Josh Hazlewood has played alongside Virat Kohli on more occasions than against him in recent times and can reveal what makes the India star so good at his craft ahead of the World Test Championship Final.

Hazlewood has spent the past two years with Kohli by his side at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL and the experienced Australia quick has seen up close just why the India great continues to be rated as one of the best batters in world cricket.

While Hazlewood - if selected - will be doing everything he can to take the key wicket of Kohli and lead Australia to glory in the ICC World Test Championship Final, the pacer has spent the last two years watching the India star closely and trying to work out why he is so good.

And Hazlewood says it is Kohli's strong work ethic that puts the India batter ahead of the rest and allows him to remain one of the most prized scalps in Test cricket.

"I think it’s probably how hard he works (that stands out),” Hazlewood told the ICC.

“His fitness first of all - and then his skill work and batting and fielding in particular.

“He is always out there (training) first and leaves last … and the intensity he trains at all the time is at such a high level it drags everyone else along for the ride. That can leak on to the other players and improve them as well.”

Kohli isn't the only World Test Championship rival that has impressed Hazlewood at RCB, with in-form seamer Mohammed Siraj another one of the Australian’s IPL teammates that he will be out to beat in the one-off Test at The Oval from June 7.

Siraj was the leading wicket-taker for RCB with 19 scalps from 14 matches in the recently-completed IPL season and Hazlewood knows the right-armer is just as capable with the red-ball.

"I was a bit late getting there (to RCB this year), but before then he was on fire,” Hazlewood said.

"He is up there at the top of the wickets every time, and the economy rate was probably the thing as bowling at Chinnaswamy (RCB’s home ground) is impossible sometimes and he was going at six or six-and-a-half an over.

“His control was great and he is bowling well."

With his frustrating stint at the IPL this year cut short due to a side issue, Hazlewood is closing in on full fitness and determined to return to the fold against an India side that he has an excellent record against.

The Australian has more five-wicket hauls in Tests against India (five) than any other nation and his record in England is just as impressive with a total of 36 wickets from eight matches at an imposing average of 23.58.

Hazlewood also made his Test debut against India - at The Gabba in Brisbane in 2014 - and has played more Tests against the Asian side (15) than any other team.

"It is a strange stat that as I think I have just played a lot of cricket against them," Hazlewood said, modestly.

"What is going to be interesting is playing them here in England.

"It is going to be interesting for both teams how they go about it and how different it is to playing them in Australia or in India as typically you only play them there.

"That is the exciting thing about it and everyone is looking forward to next week."

ICC

 

[ssuhaide]

Anyone going to this game.
A week to go and not received my tickets.

 

[Bhaag Viru Bhaag]

BCCI executive lavish lifestyle?

Do you know how much BCCI puts into cricket? Any idea?

How much money a domestic cricketer, who may never make it to the Indian team, makes?

How much money does BCCI pay as pension to cricketers?


I for one don't want Indian cricketers to have to resort to small jobs to make a living post cricket.

You get to hear about Asian cricketers living lives driving taxis or buses in Australia after Playing for their countries.

In places like NZ someone like Sinclair struggles to make a living.

Those days are not coming back to Indian cricket. Never.

IPL is necessary for Indian cricket. And 6-8 weeks in a year can be spared for that.

Would like to know how much BCCI invested in those sponges that were used to dry the pitch?

 

[MenInG]

Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar feels emerging from the IPL T20 mode will be the biggest challenge for the Indian players when they take on Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia next week. Rohit Sharma's India will play the WTC final at The Oval from June 7 to June 11 with a majority of the players having come through the rigorous IPL, which concluded on Monday with Chennai Super Kings lifting the trophy for a record-equalling fifth time.

"The biggest test will be the fact that just about everybody will be coming out of a T20 format, and Test cricket is a longer format. So, I think that's going to be the big challenge," said Gavaskar on Star Sports on Tuesday.

He added that among all the India players only veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara was well acclimatised to the longer format as he has been playing county cricket.

"They (India) have only Cheteshwar Pujara who has been playing in the English County Championship, so he will be the only guy who has played the longer format in these conditions, so that's going to be the big challenge for them." On Ajinkya Rahane, who after a long form slump has come back strongly in the IPL and helped CSK win the title this season, Gavaskar said the the 34-year-old's experience of English conditions will be beneficial to the side.

"He's got a lot of experience having played in England, having scored runs in England. So, yes, I think he is going to be crucial down at number 5. And yes, I do believe he has a point to prove, I still feel he has got plenty of cricket left in him, and this is a wonderful opportunity for him." The cricketer-turned-commentator hoped Rahane makes full use of the opportunity that has come his way to extend his professional career.

"I'm hoping he will be able to grab this opportunity with all the experience that he has and make a place for him back in the Indian team."

NDTV

 

[MenInG]

Nasser Hussain has picked only one specialist spinner in the Upstox Combined Test XI he would select from the two teams set to meet in the World Test Championship Final.

Spin was king when India and Australia clashed earlier this year but Hussain could find room for only one tweaker in a combined Test XI ahead of their rematch in the ICC World Test Championship Final in London.

Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja took a combined 47 wickets as India retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on home soil, while Australia spinners Nathan Lyon and newcomer Todd Murphy were also a threat with 36 scalps apiece.

Lyon (81) and Ashwin (61) were also among the leading wicket-takers across the WTC cycle, but only one spinner from the two teams could earn a spot in the former England skipper’s combined Test XI.

"If the World Test Championship Final was in the subcontinent or India, I might go Jadeja at six. But I'm not, because it's in England," Hussain told The ICC Review.

"I'm going to go for a bowling all-rounder, seam-bowler in Cameron Green. That's who I want as my all-rounder.

"My spin bowler would be Ravi Ashwin at eight. And he bats, obviously, very good at No.8."

Green smashed a maiden Test ton when the teams last met in Ahmedabad in March, after taking a first five-wicket haul against South Africa at the MCG in late 2022.

The five batters to come in ahead of Australia’s rising star in Hussain’s combined Test XI bring much more experience to the contest and have 91 Test centuries between them.

"Rohit Sharma, very easy, top of the order and captain for me. I love the way Rohit captains," Hussain said.

"I'd like to have Shubman (Gill) in but I think it's just a little bit early for him to break into my combined XI, so I'm going to go with Usman Khawaja to open the batting.

"Then into the very easy bit, three of the all-time world greats in (Marnus) Labuschagne, (Steve) Smith and (Virat) Kohli come in at three, four, five."

Australia wicket-keeper Alex Carey talks exclusively to the ICC in the build up to the ICC World Test Championship final against India
India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant will miss the WTC Final after being injured in a motor vehicle incident in January, and it is still to be decided whether KS Bharat or Ishan Kishan will take the gloves.

Australia keeper Alex Carey found runs hard to come by in India but is sure to have an opportunity to turn that form around in more familiar conditions at The Oval.

"Wicketkeeper is a bit hard because of the injury to Rishabh Pant. I would just have him in straight away, no questions asked, but he's not there. He's injured, unfortunately," Hussain said.

"India is still trying to work out which one they're going to play, so I'm going to go with Alex Carey as my keeper at seven."

With only one spinner in Hussain’s combined Test XI the cricketer-turned-commentator has the luxury of choosing between a host of top-line pacers to fill the remaining spots.

"(Pat) Cummins at nine, easy choice. (Mitchell) Starc at 10 to give me that left-arm variation," Hussain said.

"Mohammed Shami, just so that we can have so many replays of his seam position going down.

"I would have obviously Jasprit in there if he wasn't injured, but he is so I'm having Shami at 11."

Nasser Hussain's combined India-Australia Test XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Virat Kohli, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Mohammad Shami

ICC

 

[Mp812]

Practice games are over rated.

Getting used to conditions was the primary goal which was valid point till late 90's when Asian team used to tour Eng/Aus/NA/SA once every 3-4 years.
In todays age when players roam countries for all types of leagues on a literal monthly basis , getting used to conditions is an invalid agenda.

Its not as if a couple of weeks and players will be well versed with conditions. If that was case home team players would never loose a game because by that logic they have been getting used to the conditions since they were kids.

Besides in most cases, practice game , the home board dishes out totally different set of tracks and a team of players who are actually a lot different from the quality of players actually going to play in real test.

Besides in todays era, all players be it from any country can simulate the expected conditions back home.

 

[JattMaula]

Practice games are over rated.

Getting used to conditions was the primary goal which was valid point till late 90's when Asian team used to tour Eng/Aus/NA/SA once every 3-4 years.
In todays age when players roam countries for all types of leagues on a literal monthly basis , getting used to conditions is an invalid agenda.

Its not as if a couple of weeks and players will be well versed with conditions. If that was case home team players would never loose a game because by that logic they have been getting used to the conditions since they were kids.

Besides in most cases, practice game , the home board dishes out totally different set of tracks and a team of players who are actually a lot different from the quality of players actually going to play in real test.

Besides in todays era, all players be it from any country can simulate the expected conditions back home.

Strongly disagree.

You just need to watch our players in first test vs second test on recent major tours observe difference in players' overall execution.

 

[Rajdeep]

So how is it looking guys? Who you think will win the game?

I am feeling fairly confident as an Indian fan. Lighting dosen't strike twice and I don't see us losing 2 back to back test championship Finals. I think if we play both Ashwin and Jadeja, the game may very well be over by lunch time 4th day.

#BringItOn

 

[CrIc_Mystique]

The ICC does not want to be part of even one final. You think they will open up their wallets for three of them? Also, you think there is enough interest in this "tournament" for a best of three finals?

Why? What evidence you have that "The ICC does not want to be part of even one final" ? Is'nt the WTC, points - ladder, positions and subsequently the finals the brainchild of the ICC, designed to eliminate the boring test series no one wants to watch? also does it not give narrative and meaning to each test match?
I'd surely think if the WTC tests if played in different conditons -would have enough people in stadiums and people watching.

 

[MenInG]

Former opener Matthew Hayden has said that India's ICC title drought is down to the mindset and advised the team to forget about the outcomes and buy into the process.

Since their Champions Trophy win in 2013 under MS Dhoni, India has fallen short in ICC competitions multiple times. They lost the high-profile 2017 Champions Trophy final to Pakistan and also had semi-final exits in the 2019 ODI World Cup and the T20 World Cup 2022.

In the inaugural World Test Championship, India went on to lose the final to New Zealand two years ago. They will have another crack at the title when they take on Australia from 7-11 June at the Oval.

Speaking to PTI, Hayden said that India's title drought in ICC events has been down to mindset.

"It's certainly not a question of skill. So, it has to be a question of just the opportunity and the mindset going in. I mean, cricket is life here, it is the DNA of sport and has no other competitors," Hayden, an important member of the all-conquering Australian team of 2000s," said Hayden.

The former Australian opener also said that the popularity of the game in India does create a lot of pressure on the players.

"In Australia I could walk down the street and largely be unrecognised, especially with this terrible beard and hat on (laughs). But it's also got great competitive sports besides cricket. Rugby, football, our watersports, surfing, outdoor sports, here in India it's very insular and there's a lot of pressure."

"It's the same with Pakistan cricket as well. There is one sport and it is cricket so it's a mindset thing."

Hayden also advised the Indian team to forget about outcomes and try to buy into the process.

"Being cautious about looking for the scoreboard and looking for the titles and just playing and being a part of process, something when you look at franchise setups, Gujarat Titans have done really well this year and CSK have done very well. Mumbai Indians as well believe in a certain process."

"So, that would be my advice to Indian cricket to forget the outcomes, but buy into the process," said Hayden.

https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cr...ricket-team-matthew-hayden-2387483-2023-06-01

 

[MenInG]

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[MenInG]

Australia are preparing to face star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja in the ICC World Test Championship Final, but remain unsure whether veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin will join him in India's XI.

While the Australia XI looks relatively settled ahead of the June 7 clash at The Oval, there is still plenty of conjecture around the make-up of India's team and especially surrounding their bowlers.

India utilised three spinners during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy series on the sub-continent and Ashwin (25 wickets) and Jadeja (22) were in superb touch as they helped the hosts register a 2-1 triumph.

But Jadeja and Ashwin failed to have their usual impact when featuring in India's team that lost the inaugural World Test Championship Final to New Zealand in 2021, and it remains to be seen whether the pair will be given the chance again this time around or selectors opt for a more pace orientated line-up.

Experienced seamers Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj are almost certain to share the new ball for Rohit Sharma’s side, while Umesh Yadav and Jaydev Unadkat are also in contention alongside recalled all-rounder Shardul Thakur.

Australia assistant coach Daniel Vettori spoke with local media prior to Australia's training session at the Kent Country Cricket Ground in Beckenham on Thursday and the New Zealander revealed there had been plenty of discussion among the coaching group surrounding what sort of XI India will field in south London.

"We have been debating that," Vettori admitted.

"I think Jadeja will play because of the batting he brings to the table and how successful he has been at that No.6 position.

"Then the question will be around that fourth seamer and the all-rounder in Thakur and Ashwin, but they are (both) pretty good choices."

Ashwin's record in England is decent - the right-armer has a total of 18 wickets at an average of 28.11 from seven matches - but surprisingly the 36-year-old has only ever played one Test at The Oval.

That match was way back in 2014 against England where Ashwin collected figures of 3/72, but the veteran has since boosted his resume and is currently India's second leading Test wicket-taker (474) of all time.

"Ashwin is an incredible bowler and he will be first choice in most teams, and just with their combinations it may lead to that (him missing selection)," Vettori said.

"We expect The Oval to behave how it always behaves.

"It is a good wicket, but it can offer a lot to the spinners as the game goes on.”

ICC

 

[MenInG]

The World Test Championship final is only a week away. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian cricket team is eyeing a good result as it faces the Australian team in the summit clash at The Oval, starting on June 7. Since 2013, India have come close many times but have failed to win an ICC trophy each time. The WTC final, the second one for India, presents the team a good opportunity to end that drought. Several top players like Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant are not part of the team due to injury. Despite Bumrah's absence, the Indian pace line-up looks pretty strong. However, in Pant's absence, the choice is between Ishan Kishan and KS Bharat.

Ravi Shastri shared his take on the ideal '12' for the WTC final.

"When you look at the WTC, if I remember from the last time India were in the final, it is very important what you learn from that game. You got to pick a team that suits the conditions. Last time in Southampton the weather was really overcast. Hence I will pick my 12. My 12 is very clear: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara at No. 3, Virat Kohli at 4, Ajinkya Rahane at 5," Ravi Shastri said on Star Sports.

"Now the choice has to be between KS Bharat and Ishan Kishan. I have a feeling that India might just go with...depending on who is playing...two spinners are playing may be KS Bharat. But if there are four seamers and one spinner then it will go the other way. Six will be Jadeja, 7 will be be Mohammed Shami, 8 will be Mohammed Siraj, 9 will be Shardul Thakur. 11 will be Ravichandran Ashwin and 12 will be Umesh Yadav."

The WTC final is set to start on June 07 at the Oval.

NDTV

 

[MenInG]

India and Australia will clash for the World Test Championship title at the Oval from June 7. India's playing 11 has been a hot topic of debate, with team India missing some regular Test players due to injuries. However, the batting looks sorted with Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane certain to play. There will be a toss-up between Wriddhiman Saha and Ishan Kishan for the wicketkeeper slot.

Another decision India will have to take will be going in with four seamers and one spinner or three pacers and two spinners. R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been phenomenal for India but will India take the risk of playing just three seamers in the English conditions?

Australia assistant coach Daniel Vettori shed light on Australia's preparations and revealed that they had a long discussion about India's bowling attack. Vettori said that he feels India will play Jadeja and go in with Shardul Thakur as a seaming all-rounder, sidelining ace spinner R Ashwin.

"We have been debating that," Vettori said.

"I think Jadeja will play because of the batting he brings to the table and how successful he has been at that No.6 position.

"Then the question will be around that fourth seamer and the all-rounder in (Shardul) Thakur and Ashwin, but they are (both) pretty good choices."

Vettori said that Ashwin is a very good bowler and will be the first-choice spinner in most teams but India's combination might force him to miss out.

"Ashwin is an incredible bowler and he will be the first choice in most teams, and just with their combinations it may lead to that (him missing selection)," Vettori said.

"We expect The Oval to behave how it always behaves.

"It is a good wicket, but it can offer a lot to the spinners as the game goes on."

CricketCountry

 

[jattafridi]

Everybody saying Virat Kohli will score century in the WTC Final

It’s really hard to predict who will be the man of the match

 

[MenInG]

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the World Test Championship final against India, which starts on Wednesday at The Oval.

Hazlewood, 32, is managing an Achilles issue plus a side injury, which resulted in him missing much of the Indian Premier League.

He remains in contention for the first Ashes Test against England which starts at Edgbaston on 16 June.

Michael Neser comes into the squad for the five-day match in London.

Neser has been playing county cricket for Glamorgan and taken 19 wickets this summer.

However, Hazlewood's absence leaves Scott Boland in pole position to join captain Pat Cummins and left-armer Mitchell Starc in Australia's side.

Hazlewood has been bowling in training this week but Australia have opted to be cautious, given five Ashes Tests follow in six weeks.

"Josh was very, very close to being given the green light but our upcoming schedule means this is not a one-off Test match for us," Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey said.

"Michael's county form has been strong and knowing that he was going to be close by allowed for him to keep playing and for us to be able to call on him. He is a great strength to have as part of the fast bowling group.

"This will give Josh an ideal preparation leading into Edgbaston. With six Test matches in a little over seven weeks we will need all of our fast bowling assets."

BBC

 

[Punjab Kings]

Best of luck for Australia

 

[Romali_rotti]

Totally forgot about this.

But Advantage Australia as no Pant for India.

Either way I wouldnt be too sad with the result, both Aus & India are dear to me...

 

[jattafridi]

Josh Hazlewood is injured

Everything going indias way 1 billion fans praying working

As long as exciting match I am happy


Cameron Green u young u can win in the future

 

[cricketjoshila]

Indian players more interested in watching football.

 

[MenInG]

Injury has caused Australia to make a late change to their 15-player squad for this week's ICC World Test Championship clash against India at The Oval, with experienced seamer Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the match due to his ongoing Achilles and side issue.

Hazelwood has been battling injury since he departed his stint with the Royal Challengers Bangalore early during the Indian Premier League and Australia have decided to take no risks with the right-armer ahead of a busy upcoming schedule.

In-form all-rounder Michael Neser earns a call-up to Australia's 15-player squad for the one-off Test in south London and could come into contention to earn a place in their final XI if selectors opt to include him ahead of Scott Boland. His inclusion has been approved by the World Test Championship Final's Event Technical Committee.

Neser has been in excellent touch recently for Glamorgan in England's Country Championship, with the 33-year-old having claimed 19 wickets from five matches and even managed a to score a century against Sussex and Australian teammate Steve Smith during his most recent Division Two contest.

The right-armer has managed just two Tests during his career, but could find a place in the final XI and partner skipper Pat Cummins and fellow pacer Mitchell Starc for the World Test Championship Final.

Thirty-four-year-old Boland has played just seven Tests for his country - the most recent being the series opener against India at Nagpur in February - but has claimed 28 wickets at an imposing average of 13.42.

It is hoped Hazlewood will be available for selection for the first Ashes Test in Birmingham from June 16.

Updated Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, David Warner

Standby players: Mitch Marsh, Matthew Renshaw

ICC

 

[Firebat]

Hazlewood is a big miss, he's got a good record in England.

 

[MenInG]

As we near the first ball of the second ICC World Test Championship Final, we take a look at the kits both teams will play in.

In their first World Test Championship Final, Australia have unveiled the first kit of this type in the long format, taking inspiration from their current white ball kits in ICC global tournaments.

With a yellow trim down either side and on the collar, their team name font matches that of T20 World Cups and Cricket World Cups in the recent past, as Pat Cummins' side look to complete a men's global trophy set with the World Test Championship mace.

Looking to go one better than their 2021 WTC Final performance, there are a couple of noticeable differences to the whites India will play in as they take on Australia.

Virat Kohli showing off the new India WTC Final kit.Virat Kohli showing off the new India WTC Final kit.
Moving to a new kit sponsor of Adidas, the colour trim on their collar is a lighter blue than the shirt of two years ago, with the team name colour on the front matching underneath. The players' Test cap number is displayed under the India logo in typical fashion.

While other Adidas kits across white-ball cricket and other sports have used the iconic three stripes down the sleeves, the Test shirt is comparatively understated, with the logo emblazoned on the right sleeve.

ICC

 

[MenInG]

Ricky Ponting has called on India to select both Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin for the ICC World Test Championship Final after their recent success with bat and ball.

Spinners Jadeja and Ashwin loom as key players, especially after the duo dominated as India retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a 2-1 series triumph over Australia earlier this year.

But with the WTC Final set to be played in vastly different conditions at The Oval in England from June 7 their selection for the decider remains far from certain.

The spin twins were separated when Jadeja was preferred over Ashwin for all five Tests - including the fourth match at The Oval - the last time India toured England in 2021-22.

Jadeja had minimal impact with the ball in that series, taking six wickets at an average of 56.16 but he compiled 287 runs which included a ton in the rescheduled fifth Test last year.

It is Jadeja’s talents with the bat, rather than the ball, that former Australia skipper Ponting believes could be critical to his spin partner Ashwin being included in the India XI for the WTC Final.

“I actually think they will pick Jadeja and Ashwin,” Ponting said on The ICC Review.

“Jadeja can hold down that No.6 batting spot. His batting has improved that much that they can pick him as a batter that might just bowl a few overs if required.”

Ashwin was in imperious form when India met Australia on home soil earlier this year and took a series-leading 25 wickets to earn the Player of the Series award jointly with Jadeja.

While the pair made the most of pitches suited to spinners in that series, Ashwin has also shown he can perform in all conditions to gather the third-most wickets in the current WTC cycle with 61 scalps in 13 Tests.

The 36-year-old can also add valuable runs for India and has five tons from 92 Tests.

“There is no doubt that Ashwin is a more skilled and better Test bowler than what Jadeja is”, Ponting said.

“But if Jadeja can hold down that batting spot, and then as the game goes on getting into the fourth and fifth day, if it does start to turn, then you've got that really high class second spin bowling option. That's certainly what I'd be doing.”

Australia are expected to select one specialist spinner for the winner-takes-all WTC Final with stalwart Nathan Lyon all but certain to get the nod.

Lyon matched Jadeja’s 22 wickets in the recent Test series between the two WTC finalists and spun Australia to victory in the third clash with match figures of 11/99.

The 35-year-old off-spinner also leads all-comers across the current WTC cycle with 83 wickets from 19 Tests.

“I judge spin on what Indian subcontinental batsmen normally talk about when they talk about facing spin bowling,” Ponting said.

“Everyone I've spoken to from India or Sri Lanka, and those sorts of places, rate Nathan Lyon really highly.”

ICC

 

[MenInG]

"In England, You Never Feel In But...": Rohit Sharma's Admission Ahead Of WTC FinalRohit, who was India's best batter in four Tests in 2021 against England, spoke about his personal experience while seated alongside Pat Cummins, Ross Taylor and Ian Bell.Press Trust of IndiaUpdated: June 05, 2023 10:16 AM ISTRead Time:3 min
"In England, You Never Feel In But...": Rohit Sharma's Admission Ahead Of WTC Final
Rohit Sharma preparing for WTC final© Twitter
His only Test hundred outside the sub-continent came at the Oval in 2021 and India captain Rohit Sharma says one never feels "in" as a batter in English conditions but somehow develops an intuition as to when to attack the opposition bowling. Ahead of the World Test Championship final against Australia starting Wednesday, the Indian skipper, who has enjoyed the best batting average in his team (50 plus) since the inception of the tournament, feels that there is no substitute for hard grind on English tracks.

"Look, I think, in England in general, it's pretty challenging conditions for batters. As long as you are prepared to have a good grind, you can have success," Rohit said during an ICC event 'Afternoon With Test Legends' here on Sunday.

Rohit, who was India's best batter in four Tests in 2021 against England, spoke about his personal experience while seated alongside Pat Cummins, Ross Taylor and Ian Bell.

"One thing I realised in 2021, you are never in (set) and the weather keeps changing. You need to keep concentrating for longer periods of time and you will get that intuition when it's time to take on the bowlers. More importantly you need to be out there and you have got to understand what your strengths are," the skipper said.

For someone who is big on data and analytic, as one has seen him with Mumbai Indians and Team India over years, Rohit feels that knowing the scoring pattern of former players, who have had success at the Oval, won't be a bad idea.

"I am not going to try and emulate them (successful players) but it would be a bit nice to know their pattern of scoring. What I have found out at Oval is that the square boundaries are pretty quick." Switching formats for over a decade now, Rohit knows it's hard but somehow enjoys that challenge, and his ability to tweak his technique as per requirements.

"That (change of formats) certainly has been the challenging factor. You know you play multi-format. Mentally you have to be very adaptable and tweak your technique. You need to be talking to yourself and get mentally ready.

"A lot of our younger guys haven't done that. A lot of us are doing it for many years and bringing out best performances," the captain said.

He might have won five IPL trophies, one T20 Word Cup and a Champions Trophy but for the 35-year-old Indian skipper, Test cricket remains the ultimate format.

"It keeps challenging you. You want to be in these situations. You look forward and as a person, it brings the best out of you. In last 3-4 years in Test cricket, we have had good success. Now it is about crossing that final hurdle and giving that confidence to youngsters so that they can play in the way they want to play," he concluded.

NDTV

 

[CadPakFan]

I really hope India get out of their chokers tag and finally silences these overconfident Aussies. Also would be nice for them to be demoralized leading up to our test tour

 

[JattMaula]

I really hope India get out of their chokers tag and finally silences these overconfident Aussies. Also would be nice for them to be demoralized leading up to our test tour

English will deliver the demoralisation in the ashes. :Bmac

 

[MenInG]

The skippers of Australia and India joined an esteemed panel of experts on An Afternoon with Test Cricket Legends ahead of the ICC World Test Championship Final

The WTC Final is all set to be played at The Oval from June 7-11. Australia, led by Pat Cummins, will face-off against India, captained by Rohit Sharma, for the coveted Test Mace.

A pre-game live event, An Afternoon with Test Cricket Legends, saw the two captains join eminent cricketing personalities including Ravi Shastri, Ricky Ponting, Wasim Akram, Ian Bell and Ross Taylor, to commemorate the upcoming World Test Championship final.

Hosted by Harsha Bhogle, the event began with a panel of Shastri, Ponting and Akram.

Speaking about the importance of the WTC final in the contemporary game, Ponting discussed how the event was comparable to a Cricket World Cup final.

“It’s like a World Cup final, for a Test match. In a World Cup, you play 10 or 12 games to be good enough to earn the right to win a mace like that. These two teams have over the last two years have earned the right to be out here, in a couple of days time, in a one-off game, to be able to hold that thing (mace) at the end,” Ponting said.

“I think that players from both teams need to go out there and put out the best spectacle they possibly can. Play real aggressive Test match cricket, make sure we get a result and make sure the fans get what they deserve to see.”

Akram emphasised on the fact that Australia and India were the two best sides in the world at the moment and deserved to be in the final after a rigorous two-year cycle.

“They have proved it consistently over the last couple of years, and that’s why they are here for this mace. All the other teams are trying to follow their mindset: That we are going to go for a win. The way Pat Cummins bowled against Pakistan in the last Test match in the last session, (it showed) that they were all gunning for this final,” Akram added.

“They are the well-deserved teams and meant to be here in the final.”

Shastri, who had coached India during the last WTC final, recalled that his side gave the previous WTC final the utmost respect.

“You feel that game (final) is the pinnacle. It’s for what you’ve done over the last two years, you’ve reached where you have to be one of the top two teams. And you go head-to-head. It’s something every cricketer will hope for in his career. To be able to play a final and win it.”

The panel discussed the implications that the Dukes ball, which neither India nor Australia use regularly, could have on the Test as well as the challenge posed by the conditions.

“It's different from what Indians use, it's different from what we use,” Ponting said.

“It's a neutral ball in a neutral venue and we know how this ball does react, you know, this ball does more for longer during the course of the day's play.”

While he believed that the conditions might be closer to Australia’s liking, Ponting added that it was only a slight advantage.

“If you look at this venue you would think it's a bit more like an Australian venue than it is an Indian venue. But when I thought back about that I thought well, hang on, last time India were actually in Australia they played our conditions really well, didn't they?”

“You would think conditions-based only, this slightly favours Australia, but these are two teams that thoroughly deserve to be there. Whoever plays the best in those half an hour spells or stints through the course of every day's play will end up walking well at the end of the week.”

When asked about the favourites for the final, Ponting named Australia as the side which were ahead, but only marginally. He added that the two sides had contrasting preparations leading upto the event.

“(Australia) are slight favourites. I mean, there wasn't much between them through a two-year cycle, right? So that says that these two teams, through two years, have beaten more opposition than they've lost to, and they deserve to finish first and second.

“The interesting thing as far as preparation is concerned is that some of the Australians have done nothing. They haven't been playing any cricket at all.

“At least, all the Indian guys have been playing very competitive cricket in the IPL. So coming in fresh without any cricket, is that better or is it coming in maybe slightly jaded and slightly tired on the back of an IPL but having played a lot of cricket leading in? So there's lots of factors that could show up through the course of this week.”

Akram backed Australia as the side which were slightly ahead, but also believed that the toss and weather will be important factors in the game.

“I agree with Ricky. Australia are slight favourites. It depends on the weather as well. And I think weather has been excellent, will be excellent from the seventh onwards. And toss is also crucial. And the pitch also matters. But Australia are slight favourites.”

In his take on the final, Shastri believed that Australia were ahead on paper but added that match fitness might turn out to be a decisive factor.

“I think that match fitness might come into play. It's like Waz mentioned, Ricky mentioned, you need some cricket behind you. It's not just the number of overs you bowl or how long you were, but just staying on the park for six hours,” Shastri said.

“It's totally different from just bowling in the nets for two hours, two hours, four or five days, six days. So it depends how they've practised, how they've prepared.

“Australia. On paper, if you look man to man, they have the slight edge, but that match fitness might be the key. Where Shami might just come in and do the damage in the first half an hour because he's been playing so much, as opposed to someone settling in to a line length and the right areas to bowl.”

ICC

 

[wrongun]

Josh Hazlewood is injured &#55358;&#56597;

Everything going indias way 1 billion fans praying working

As long as exciting match I am happy &#55357;&#56835;


Cameron Green u young u can win in the future &#55358;&#56697;

Scott Boland is about the best like for like replacement you could hope for Hazlewood. It won't change the outcome for Oz- Boland will be well suited.

 

[JaDed]

Everybody saying Virat Kohli will score century in the WTC Final

It’s not a Tech event..where we can speculate what product comes out..

 

[Devadwal]

First looks of pitch

 

[MenInG]

Legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram has some advice for India's quicks at the ICC World Test Championship Final - stay patient.

Wasim is well-renowned as one of the best pacers of all time, with the Pakistan great amassing a total of 414 Test wickets throughout a glittering 17-year Test career.

The left-armer was one of the most accomplished exponents of swing bowling and knows both India and Australia will get ample opportunity to extract plenty of movement from The Oval pitch when the one-off World Test Championship Final commences on Wednesday.

Exclusive behind-the-scenes coverage of India's training session ahead of the all-important ICC World Test Championship 2023 Final
India's pace attack will be based around the experienced duo of Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, with all-rounder Shardul Thakur a likely starter and Jaydev Unadkat and Umesh Yadav also in contention should selectors opt to play an extra seamer.

And Wasim has urged India's quicks to stay patient against Australia's top-order and not fall into the habit of dropping too short early in their spell.

"These guys are experienced, and they shouldn’t get carried away (with the new ball)," Wasim said.

"We all know it swings for 10 to 15 overs, so don't give away extra runs in the first 10 to 15 overs as a fast bowler.

"(Early on) don’t get too excited if there is a bit of bounce as that is what the Australians want."

Wasim had a fine record bowling at most grounds around the world, but it was at The Oval where the former Pakistan skipper claimed his best Test figures in England when he took 6/67 in the first innings of the fifth and final Test of an epic series to lead his side to a memorable triumph in 1992.

It was Wasim and fellow quick Waqar Younis that troubled the England batters with their reverse swing during parts of that series and the Pakistan great is once again expecting swing to be a factor during the World Test Championship Final.

Legendary Pakistan duo Waqar Younis and Wasim AkramLegendary Pakistan duo Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram
"This pitch normally favours teams from the sub-continent, but whenever we toured here... it was always at the end of August or start of September," Wasim said.

"This one is in June, the square is different, fresh square, and the ball is different altogether as a Dukes."

ICC

 

[MenInG]

KS Bharat couldn’t have asked for a better source of advice ahead of potentially playing his first ever Test in English conditions in the upcoming World Test Championship Final.

The Indian wicket-keeper revealed to the ICC that he received some tips from none other than Indian legend MS Dhoni ahead of the match against Australia at The Oval, with MS taking time out of captaining Chennai Super Kings to the Indian Premier League (IPL) title to speak with Bharat.

“Recently during the IPL I had a word with Mahendra,” Bharat told the ICC in an interview with Sanjana Ganesan at The Oval.

“He (talked about) his experiences keeping in England as well as what would work the best for any wicket-keeper.

“It was a very good conversation and there were a lot of insights from that.”

Receiving advice from Dhoni was particularly impactful given that Bharat named the veteran when asked what makes a good wicket-keeper.

“It’s the awareness – the best example is MS Dhoni, the awareness he has in keeping is outstanding," Bharat added.

“You need intent and passion to be a keeper, because keeping is a thankless job. You keep 90 overs in a Test day and you have to be concentrating ball by ball, so you have to accept the challenges and embrace it and be really passionate about contributing to the team.”

Bharat’s place in the XI is one of the big selection decisions facing India ahead of the first day’s play on Wednesday.

The 29-year-old has played just four Tests for India, all against Australia in India earlier this year after stepping in to replace the injured Rishabh Pant.

Bharat’s quality with the gloves merited his spot in the side, but his return with the bat was disappointing in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, as he registered a top score of 44 in six innings with the bat.

India may instead be tempted to go with the match-winning potential of Ishan Kishan in the side for the one-off WTC23 Final.

Kishan is the other wicket-keeping option in the India squad, and arrived in England on the back of a fine IPL campaign that saw him hit 454 runs in 16 innings for Mumbai Indians.

But the youngster has yet to feature for India in the longer format of the game, so would be making his debut in the showpiece event were he to get the call.

The World Test Championship Final starts this Wednesday, with a packed crowd expected at the iconic south London venue.

India will be hoping to go one better than the last time they travelled to England for the WTC Final back in 2021, when they were beaten to the title by New Zealand.

ICC

 

[MenInG]

Steve Smith has backed both Michael Neser and Scott Boland to make a strong impact if they’re picked for the World Test Championship Final.

Australia will have to make an adjustment from their planned bowling attack due to the injury to Josh Hazlewood that ruled the seamer out of the match against India.

And Hazlewood’s replacement in the Australia squad, Michael Neser, has all the skills to come straight into the XI and make a big impact if called upon, according to the former Aussie captain.

“(I’ve got) so much faith, he is a quality performer,” Smith said at The Oval on Monday.

“I faced him against (County side) Glamorgan a couple of weeks ago and he bowled beautifully.

“He has got great skills and he’s added some of the inswingers we have seen him bowl when the wicket is a bit flatter.

“So he has got loads of skills and is batting nicely as well, so he is a great package. If he gets an opportunity he will certainly do a very good job.”

Scott Boland was part of the original 15-strong squad for the one-off Test against India at The Oval, and would be making his eighth Test appearance if picked in the XI for Wednesday’s first day.

The 34-year-old’s pace, control and probing length would make him a threat on English surfaces, although he has played just one Test away from home and has yet to take a wicket outside Australia in the format.

“I think we will get what Scotty does pretty well,” Smith said.

“He hits a good length, hits the top of the stumps, seams the ball around, swings it if he wants to and he has got great skills as well.

“No doubt he will be a challenge if he gets the nod.”

Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, captain Pat Cummins and all-rounder Cameron Green are likely to make up the remainder of the attack alongside either Boland or Neser.

India could well name two spinners in their attack for the Test, but seam and swing is expected to be the defining feature of a Test in alien conditions for both sides, with Smith earmarking Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj as the primary threats in the India attack.

“They have got a good mix of quality seam bowlers, with Shami and Siraj probably their two main guys,” Smith said.

“They have really good skills and the Dukes ball will suit them nicely. And then obviously their spinners as well, who bowl well in all conditions.

“So I think they have a good attack and we are going to have to play well against them this week.”

ICC

 

[sweep_shot]

Should be a good game. But, I expect Aussies to win comfortably.

 

[MenInG]

So much grass?!!

 

[shaz619]

Nice warm up for the Ashes as far as the Aussies must be concerned

 

[Ab Fan]

Massive pressure on Australia to deliver as they have been served with humiliations in each of the last 4 outings over a series between the two teams in whites.

 

[rpant_gabba]

What are the odds on our Bangladeshi born english psychiatrist, who currently practices in Australia but a Pakistani team fan, showing up to gloat if things don't go well for india?
[MENTION=132715]Varun[/MENTION] [MENTION=113824]Nikhil_cric[/MENTION]

 

[RamLakhan]

So much grass! On thing is sure they want to finish this match in 3 days....

 

[jattafridi]

Australia please no drop catches u can still win

Come on

King Kohli Vs Steven Smith

 

[James]

Actually quite looking forward to this game of cricket as a “Neutral”. I hear that the ticket sales have been very good. Not sure who I want to win, though

 

[MenInG]

 

[MenInG]

Captains Pat Cummins and Rohit Sharma have sung the praises of their respective teams across the journey ahead of one last battle in the ICC World Test Championship Final 2023.

The Australia and India skippers were both quick to acknowledge the hard work of their teammates, toiling across the globe in the longest format in a bid to be crowned WTC champions, while speaking to Sanjana Ganesan at the Captains’ Photo event ahead of the decider.

Australia raced away from the pack early on in the cycle, trouncing Ashes rivals England 4-0 on home soil, consolidated with an away series win in Pakistan, and took vital points after a 1-1 draw away in Sri Lanka.

Home series against West Indies and South Africa all but assured their spot in the WTC Final, taking some stress away from their trip to India to end their cycle, though a victory in Indore ensured a first-place finish on the WTC standings.

Everything you need to know about the ICC World Test Championship Final
Cummins feels the chance to claim the mace this week is a just reward for the team's efforts throughout their travels.

"It's really satisfying (to be here). You've got to win lots of games, not only at home but away," Cummins said.

"The team has been excellent over the last few years and they deserve to be here in the Final. It's all to play for. It's exciting."

India by contrast were the side with more work to do come their last series of the cycle, though were professional against the Australians on home soil.

Claiming a 2-1 series win over this week's opponents was enough to cement their spot in the WTC Final, brushing aside the likes of South Africa, Sri Lanka, and even a late surge from an evolving England side late in the cycle.

Rohit echoed the sentiments of his opposite number, acknowledging the team's versatility across all conditions as they claimed away victories against England and South Africa early on their path to ensure an easier run home.

“Overall, if you look at the consistent cricket that we played, we displayed good cricket all around," Rohit said.

"It's a very tough tournament. We've got to play consistent cricket throughout the couple of years to get here.

“You need all the departments to do well for you. And I thought our strength really has been all three departments.”

The latest series between the two eventual WTC finalists was just another chapter in what has been a fierce rivalry on the field.

A neutral Test is tipped to level the scales between the sides, though India also enjoy bragging rights with series wins on their last two trips to Australia.

India will bask in more support at The Oval, and the pair, who will likely go toe-to-toe at opposite ends of the pitch, chuckled at the prospect that neutrals too will likely side with Rohit's side, especially with an Ashes campaign coming next for the Australians from June 16.

"It (a neutral venue) is something different for both teams. No home support, although I think we usually get a bit more support anywhere we play," Rohit said with a smile.

"But no, it's always been nice, coming and playing at neutral venues for us.

"It's not just the two or three years of rivalry. There's so much history behind the two teams taking on each other. So that is what makes it more exciting, not just for the players but also for the people who are watching from all parts of the world."

Cummins added that the WTC Final adds another dimension to the rivalry, already stoked by recent meetings and players sharing dressing rooms in domestic cricket.

"I think through IPL we know a lot of the guys now as well, which always kind of has some healthy battles.

"I think in a lot of ways we play a similar style. Some quick bowlers, the batters want to get out there and take the game on, and there's been really close battles over the last few years, so it's going to be a bit different playing in a neutral venue but it should be good fun.”

Curiously, the pair looked at potential glory in different ways when asked what a WTC Final win would mean for each of them.

For Cummins, the mace represents the final piece of silverware needed to make its way into the men's side's trophy cabinet.

“It's a trophy we haven't won in Australian cricket," Cummins said.

"Test Cricket for me is always the pinnacle.

"I've had some great series wins over the years, but to play in this tournament ... I think it could be the most special."

Comparatively, India's captain looked to it being a reward of recent graft, having bounced back from a 2021 WTC Final defeat with a strong 2021-2023 cycle.

“It'll mean everything to us. This is the ultimate format, the most challenging format," Rohit said.

"So to come out on top in this particular format will be great because it's not the effort for a month or two, it's the effort that we put in for the last few years.”

ICC

 

[Unbiased-Fan]

I have no hopes from India this time.. India doesn't even have 10% chance this time. Only a magic from Kohli can save India from humiliating defeat.. Sure shot victory for Australia

 

[MenInG]

Poll added!

 

[MenInG]

Indian cricket team is all set to take on Australia in the World Test Championship Final starting from Wednesday. Skipper Rohit Sharma said, every captain wants to win the title and he is "no different." The Test match will be played at The Oval. In a press conference, Rohit Sharma said, "Everyone wants to take the team forward. Everyone wants to win the title. Every captain wants to Win Championships and I am no different. The next five days are going to be important for us. I want to focus on what is in our mind."

Rohit Sharma said, "We are quite excited about the squad as well. We know what happened in the last WTC final as well. We have played here before."

He further added, "We have been playing cricket like this for years and years. That's why we talk about workload management. So, that they (players) are available for important matches. To make sure everyone is fresh. Even last year we played IPL and then we came to the UK and played one Test, three ODIs and three T20Is"

"We as a team know what we have won and when was the last time we won. There is no point thinking about it and take pressure we just want to focus on the game, " said Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma said, "We will have a team briefing in the evening. A lot of guys have played in these situations. They have gone through these situations before. At some stage, they have faced pressure. We will have a good time in the middle. I had a look at the pitch so it will assist the seamers. The last time we played the reverse swing also happened on the last day."

Rohit Sharma also mentioned former Australian player, Ricky Ponting, who had said that Australia have a slight advantage going into the WTC final. "Ricky Ponting is free to give his opinions. A lot of experts do and we know what is at stake for us," Sharma said.

During the press conference on Tuesday, Rohit Sharma said, "Shubman Gill has played in these conditions before. He likes to bat and spend time in the middle and face that challenge. To be honest not really too much to tell him. It is about giving him more and more confidence."

In Test cricket, Shubhmam Gill has scored 890 runs in 28 innings. His highest score was 128 runs which came against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The right-handed batsman has scored two centuries and four half-centuries in Test cricket. He has smashed 104 boundaries and 13 sixes.

When asked about the weather conditions, Rohit Sharma said, " The weather looks alright. We will see the conditions tomorrow and then we will take the call. We as a team know what we have won and when was the last time we won. There is no point in thinking about it and taking pressure we just want to focus on the game."

When asked about teammate Ashwin, Rohit Sharma said, " I am not saying that we will not play Ashwin. We will see the conditions and then take a call. Weather changes every day in England."

While concluding he said, "The last Championship we played was also a 10.30 start. It does not make too much of a difference in half an hour."

NDTV

 

[IndoorCricket]

The absolute green field might benefit India.

 

[JattMaula]

So much grass?!!

Normal Oval status before the game trim.

 

[MenInG]

Normal Oval status before the game trim.

Correct!


<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The pitch is ready for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTCFinal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTCFinal</a>!&#55356;&#57295;<br><br>A little browner as the grass is 6mm today compared to 9mm yesterday. <br><br>What would you choose if you win the toss? <a href="https://t.co/IKvWNlLHm2">pic.twitter.com/IKvWNlLHm2</a></p>— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1666093325110345732?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Mockingbird]

Normally it would be a shoo-in for Australia, but you never know with an India-Australia test match…

 

[Champ_Pal]

I hope India does not play Unadkat.

Bharat and Kishan are pretty much the same in keeping abilities. Their batting might be same too. Except that Kishan has the x-factor where he can score runs in bunches. Bharat could not score much in India too. Kishan has slight edge.

 

[happydavy]

I have no hopes from India this time.. India doesn't even have 10% chance this time. Only a magic from Kohli can save India from humiliating defeat.. Sure shot victory for Australia

Magic from Kohli in England or against Australia away from home leading to victory never happens though. Just too overrated. He's a media asset and his actual performances in semis and finals have no correlation to what media projects him to be. More of pauper than being King when it comes to all important matches!

 

[SalimBhai]

Who wins here. Will more grass be cut ?

 

[Cover Drive Six]

I have no hopes from India this time.. India doesn't even have 10% chance this time. Only a magic from Kohli can save India from humiliating defeat.. Sure shot victory for Australia

Our chances are very slim.

 

[RamLakhan]

If Rohit Sharma somehow manages to win this match and also makes important contribution with bat, then I hope he will concentrate fully in Test Cricket for next 2-3 years (captaining the side too). And then he should gracefully leave aside International ODI & T20. Should start this from the coming world cup itself! (Pandya should captain both ODI & T20 teams)

 

[shamaan]

I think it will be a draw.

 

[jattafridi]

Both are very good teams

Still can’t predict who will win

I hope Australia win

 

[MenInG]

Australia looking strong favourites so far.

 

[CadPakFan]

I'll pick the wild card and say Rahane will make a hundred in both innings and he and Thakur will guide India to victory with Thakur taking 5 wickets in the second innings and making a significant contribution in the chase